SUNDAY SERVICES FOR THE FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT
10.00 am The Cathedral: Holy Communion: Revd Christine
10.00 am Annestown: Morning Prayer: Mr Wilfred Baker
11.30 am Dunmore East: Morning Prayer: Mr Wilfred Baker
11.30 am Tramore: Holy Communion: Revd Christine
SUNDAY READINGS
Deuteronomy 26:1-11
Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16
Romans 10:8b-13
Luke 4:1-13
REFLECTION:
Many Christians can claim to believe that Jesus is Lord and believe that God the Father raised Him from the dead, and yet go through their lives anxious and fearful. Their faith remains head knowledge, custom and habit, but it never sinks down into the heart and allows us to be transformed, becoming bold and strong and confident in the power of His might. As a teenager, I saw some of my friends radiate with joy and peace as they described having a personal relationship with Jesus. I wanted what they had, but it felt like I was on the outside, looking in. Going to church and prayer meetings felt dry and full of effort. This Sunday's Gospel reading shows that Jesus Himself, at the start of His earthly ministry, was led into the desert to pray and fast. Weakened by hunger and thirst, He Himself was tempted by the devil - power, worldly possessions, fulfilment of needs, image and prestige. To each temptation, Jesus replied: "It is written" and proceeded to refute each temptation by quoting Scripture - the Word of God. In order for us to stand strong as Christians we have to get to know this victorious Jesus: by reading and reflecting on His Word, and by spending time in prayer each day. People often say to me: "I don't have time to do all that!" to which I answer: "Then make some time!" The Old Testament reading reminds us of the importance of prioritising God, of putting Him first; giving Him the first fruits of our money, our time, our gratitude. It is life-changing. In this season of Lent, why not make getting to know God better - to make time every morning & evening to spend a quiet few minutes in His Presence. Switch off the TV, the headphones, the computer for ten minutes and see where it takes you! Let us all agree to pray each day for the people of Ukraine and for peace to prevail.
CURATE'S WEEK
Revd Christine's day off this week will be tomorrow, Saturday 5th March. She will be in Dublin all day on Tuesday 8th at a meeting of the Church of Ireland Standing Committee and another subsequent meeting. Her day off next week will be on Wednesday 9th. Emergency calls only please.
There will be no Tuesday Walk in the Park.this coming Tuesday 8th. Join us on Friday for a Walk on the Prom!
LECTIO BIBLE STUDY
Wednesdays at 10.30am on zoom, led by Diocesan Reader Grainne Duggan.
MID WEEK PRAYER SERVICE
From Wednesday 15th March, there will be a Service of Morning Prayer in the Cathedral each Wednesday at 11.45 am.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR NEW DEAN'S SERVICE OF INSTALLATION ON WEDNESDAY 6TH APRIL AT 7PM IN THE CATHEDRAL
Calling all parishioners of Waterford Union of Parishes! We would be grateful if some volunteers would be interested in being part of a sub committee to organise refreshments in the Cathedral after the installation of our new Dean, the Very Revd Bruce Hayes. We would welcome trays of sandwiches, cakes and finger food as well as organising teas and coffees and people to help set up and serve those attending the service. It will be a lovely occasion to meet the Dean and his family, as well as to say goodbye to Bishop Michael, as he departs for the West and the new United Diocese of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe.
Those wishing to volunteer please contact Revd Christine as soon as possible.
PROTESTANT AID
We cannot fail to notice how prices have shot up lately: from the weekly supermarket shop to the price of heating, electricity, gas, diesel and petrol. Many people are struggling bravely, in the cold, not putting the heating or the electric fire on; cutting down on food and car journeys. Just a very gentle reminder that grant aid is available from Protestant Aid. A quiet word in confidence to Revd Christine and an application can make all the difference. Please don't suffer in silence or feel that you shouldn't. Most of us have had times in our lives where we have needed a helping hand. For some that time is now. Please text or phone 0872933461.
A PERSONAL THANK YOU FROM REVD CHRISTINE
Many thanks to those of you praying for a dear old friend of mine, Bruno, during the week undergoing emergency surgery after a heart attack while abroad on holiday. Bruno sadly passed away, surrounded by all his family who were able to travel and to get there on time. They have spoken of the strength and courage they have received at this terrible time, knowing that there are people in Ireland praying for them, and have asked me to pass on their thanks.